A Reflection on My Time in Rural North Frontenac: A Journey from City Life to Country Life and Back Again

In 2018, my wife Mary and I arrived in the very rural community of North Frontenac as weekenders, eager to embrace the peace and beauty of cottage life. By 2019, that weekend retreat became our full-time home, and in 2020, I took a leap of faith without out any knowledge or experience launching my own business. The journey has been filled with joy, challenges, growth, and a deep appreciation for the rugged charm of this place. After 7-years, we’ve decided to leave this community. As we prepare to move on, I'd like to share my reflections on my time here with gratitude and honesty.

The Unmatched Beauty of North Frontenac

North Frontenac is stunning. Thanks to incredible support for my business, I've driven down nearly every road in this township, and the scenery never fails to impress. The lakes, forests, and winding roads showcase a landscape that is truly second to none. The natural beauty is a constant, reassuring presence that I will always hold dear. It's no surprise that this area is a hidden gem and remains a haven for locals, cottagers and retirees as a peaceful escape from the busyness of urban life.

Entrepreneurship in Rural Ontario

Starting a business here was both a privilege and a learning experience. In 2020, when I founded what has become Canadian Handywoman, I knew it would be a challenge. I couldn't have predicted just how much I'd have to modify year after year.

Business opportunities in North Frontenac are shaped by the seasonal nature and the needs of the community. Many of the businesses cater to tourists and part-time residents, which can make it challenging for year-round entrepreneurs. That reality, while understandable, has meant I've had to continually adapt and evolve my business in ways I hadn't initially expected

Adjusting to Rural Rhythms

There's a rhythm to life here, a pace that many cherish, but one that also comes with certain adjustments for newcomers. ‘Country Time’ is a real thing. Despite being partly raised in a rural setting, I spent much of my life in an urban environment. I came to North Frontenac with certain ingrained expectations about municipal services, infrastructure, and community engagement.

What might be considered basic municipal support in a city—road maintenance, infrastructure investment, community programming—is often approached with a 'this is how it's always been done' mindset or by grassroots volunteers. For long-time residents, this is just a way of life, but for someone coming from outside, it takes time to understand and to adjust to.

Finding My Place in the Community

At times, integrating into the community was difficult. There is a strong sense of tradition here, which can make it challenging for newcomers to feel fully embraced. The established networks and close-knit relationships formed over generations can unintentionally create barriers for new voices.

While I wasn't always present or included in the way I had hoped, I've met some wonderful people who have become valued friends and mentors. One moment that stands out is when I won the Women-Led Business Award from the County of Frontenac. That recognition reminded me that, even in a place where I often felt like an outsider, my work was seen and appreciated.

Region of Frontenac Networking Event

The Treasured Connections

What I'll treasure most from my time in North Frontenac are the relationships I've built along the way. From my clients who welcomed me into their homes and cottages and often became friends, to the local business owners who offered guidance when I was finding my footing. These connections have made this chapter of my life truly meaningful.

Moving Forward While Staying Connected

While I'm changing my primary residence, North Frontenac will remain part of my life. The lessons I've learned here about adaptability and resilience will serve me well wherever I go. Plus, I’m still maintaining many of my local client base.

To maintain the community spirit I've come to value, I'm expanding my online community network to include neighbouring counties, creating a space where rural residents throughout Frontenac, Quinte, Hastings, and Lennox & Addington can share resources and support each other. Rural communities face similar challenges, and I believe there's strength in connecting across township lines.

A Bittersweet Farewell

Leaving is bittersweet, but it's also necessary for me at this stage of my life. While I have gained so much from my time here, I need to be closer to family who need my direct support. I need to be in a place where infrastructure and municipal services better align with my needs and values, and in a location where I can continue to adapt and grow my business throughout the entire year..

The beauty of rural living comes with trade-offs, and I've realized that at this stage of my life, a different setting will better serve my current needs. To everyone who calls North Frontenac home, I wish you continued happiness in this beautiful corner of Ontario.

Rural Reflection and Final Thoughts

As I reflect back, this rural community has so much to offer for those whose lives align with what it provides. I share these reflections simply as my personal experience – neither a blueprint nor a critique. Different people thrive in different environments, and what presents challenges for me might be exactly what someone else loves about rural living.

My hope is that sharing my journey might contribute something worthwhile to conversations about being true to yourself, community, belonging, and the unique character of small-town life. North Frontenac has shaped my wife and I in countless positive ways, and for that, we'll always be grateful.

Stay Connected

If you're navigating the joys and challenges of rural living or entrepreneurship, I'd love to continue our conversation.

Join my email list for updates on my new online community network for rural residents, or simply reach out to share your own story.

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Or simply drop me a line – I'd love to hear from you!

Tammy WatsonCanadian Handywoman